Some Minneapolis folks are finding a lot of comfort in monthly "cuddle parties"—non-sexual meet-ups facilitated by registered nurse Candessa Hadsall. The cuddle sessions, held in her living room on piles of bedding, are meant to help participants, who don't always know each other, explore boundaries and improve communication.

The first rule of Cuddle Club is that Cuddle Club costs 20 dollars. The most important rule is you must ask permission for each touch, and you don't have to cuddle with anyone if you don't want to. Other rules stress that the word "no" is a complete sentence, and advise that if a cuddlee is uncertain of whether or not he/she is open to a particular touch, it's best to just go with "no." No word on whether or not Dutch ovens are acceptable.